Laka Skin Care & Spa

I had Eric as my masseuse. He was excellent. I had the 90 minute laka signature and the 15 minute scalp massage. I had him concentrate on my lower back and it felt much much after. The scalp massage was soooo great. I would come back again for sure.

Came here today with my sisters. We had the signature facial for 75 min. What an amazing experience! I was falling asleep because it was so relaxing. The place has a really homey feel. Very clean, the surrounding aroma is very exotic, background music was very calming. We definitely enjoyed ourselves. I want to try the foot reflexology massage next time. Thanks to my sister for this special treat! It was an awesome experience! The only reason its getting a 4 star instead of 5 is because of the TINY scoop of gelato at the end. The tea was wonderful but you can’t have just a spoon of ice cream, especially when it tastes so good! Haha! That’s my sweet tooth talking!

Akilo and staff hit another one out of the park today! My husband and I had a wonderful reflexology session with Don and Yuji setting the stage for our couples massage. My masseuse Khisgee was excellent. She was thorough and knew exactly what to do for my aching shoulder and stiff neck. She’s my new fave!
My husband and I truly appreciate the superb level of service and attention to customer satisfaction. Of course the spa facility itself is beautiful and well maintained. The extra touches such as the hot tea, Ionized water and delicious ice cream treat are exactly what the dr. ordered for those of us stressed out by the holiday rush.
Go ahead and pamper yourself and take the edge off by booking yourself a session at Laka Spa, you won’t be sorry!
Merry Christmas Laka family!

Hands down the best massage of my life. I should have known due to Laka having the most and best reviews, but being an SF native I’ve been to my share of well rated Spas but had mediocre massages (you leave still tight and unrelaxed).
The space itself was so tranquil. You change into slippers and a robe right when you walk in. They have aroma scents and you start to unwind and feel at peace. My bf and I got a deep tissue massage. I had a lot of knots and needed them out. I got Tiffany as my therapist and she was amazing. Perfect amount of pressure and checked a couple times to see if the pressure was right. I literally just melted away. I was happy that I stayed awake to enjoy the massage because I could feel that good type of pain when Tiffany was relieving all my aches and I felt my body completely relaxing. Getting a great massage is like wearing glasses for the first time, you aren’t sure you need it because you’ve lived your life like so. However, once you experience your body ache free, you don’t know how to go back. These therapists also can feel where you feel tighter and concentrate more on those areas. My main problem areas are my neck and shoulder but Tiffany then found my glutinous maximus and wow did that help my entire body.
You end the massage with tea and a sorbet bite which was perfect. They don’t rush you and give you all the time you need. I would come back to Oahu just for Laka. Really, just for Laka. Thanks Laka team for an amazing experience. So worth the money and the trip!!!

You’d never know this little piece of heaven was located in the heart of Ward! Laka is located right off Ward Avenue (catty corner from Wahoo Taco /​Patagonia /​Jamba Juice and Starbucks), in the same building that houses Supercuts. Park in designated customer service stalls or street parking and enter courtyard, follow signage to upstairs zen.
I came here with my women’s group and they were impressed and surprised that such a beautiful, serene spa was smack dab in the middle of a busy Ward. We were all greeted warmly and asked to take off our shoes in exchange for their slippers (not too comfy and strangely generic). For those who haven’t been there before, they were required to fill out some papers. While waiting for my friends to fill out their papers, I was offered water or tea and then escorted to a dressing area where I could change into a super comfy robe.
The locker room was clean and lockers were of ample size for you to store your belongings. I left my cell phone on purpose so not to distract from the full relaxation experience. You keep the key on you at all times so that you can later access your belongings. Because we all were there for a specific spa package with varying add on services, we were all whisked away by our masseuse to our private rooms.
My spa experience was DEVINE! My masseuse Jenny was so professional and meticulous! I opted for a facial, signature massage (combo shiatsu and deep tissue) and FACIAL CUPPING. I was surprised at the amount of time spent on my feet (reflexology) and welcomed it! Omgoodness, If you’ve never had foot reflexology before I highly recommend that you try it at least once. Jenny’s techniques and consistency during the entire treatment was perfection! She didn’t talk much at all (which I enjoyed) and asked appropriately if the pressure was ok or if the temperature was ok.
Loved that the massage table was warmed and that Jenny kept me warm the entire time, making sure to only expose the area that she was working on. Also, I appreciated having the oils/​lotion wiped off after the treatment (nothing worse that trying to walk in sandals and slipping here and there because of the lotion/​oils). The facial wasn’t anything less than stellar, I loved the way my face felt after the treatment and truly appreciated that Jenny was gentle and thorough (let’s just say she had a very light touch as compared to being heavy handed).
I’ve never had facial cupping before and I was willing to experience it firsthand. It’s similar to cupping when you have acupuncture treatment but minus the heat when they attach the cup to you. I was initially fearful that I would leave there with multiple cupping marks on my face and/​or neck but to my surprise I left just as I arrived but feeling relaxed a hundredfold. I could visualize the pathway of cupping into my lymphatics and I would most certainly try it again if it indeed rids the face of toxins and impurities.
After my treatments I was led to a room where my women’s group would gather to have tea, ionic water and acai sorbet. There was no time limit in that room and we were allowed to stay however long (or short) we wanted. It was nice to hear everyone’s experiences and nice knowing that they too had such a great experience. I really enjoyed having that space to regroup after a massage and not feel rushed to jump back into reality. This was such a perfect place to end the year for my women’s group and I highly recommend this spa for a girl’s day out!
Excellent customer service from start to finish!
And oh, don’t forget to exchange your slippers for your own at the end of your treatment (s).

Treated myself to their signature package — came with a 60m signature massage and 60m signature facial. Parking is kind of tight here. All the spots were full when I got there but I eventually found parking. The facilities are nice. I am satisfied but not blown away by my massage and facial. When I was done, they gave me a tiny scoop of sesame gelato, tea, and water. I left very relaxed, which was the whole reason I went. I joined their loyalty program and would probably return.

You get a physical checkup yearly. Massage should be a yearly thing for everyone. It is for me. I prefer to get a nice massage than to buy a nice purse. Is that weird?
Sorry to compare but my place to go for massage has been Aveda or Hoala Salon Ala Moana Mall. So I wanted to try a new place. I’m glad I did after reading excellent reviews on Unilocal.
Laka is located across from Sports Authority and behind Supercuts. It’s a cozy building with variety of businesses inside. It’s also quiet and isolated from main street. What a perfect location. It is located on the second floor. Reserved/​assigned parking stalls are available at no cost.
I got the 60 minutes massage for $ 100. That’s about right.
After I checked in, I was asked to change into rubber slippers and to wait. They have a spacious waiting area. I felt as if I was invited to someone’s house. I felt comfortable immediately to a brand new place.
My massage therapist’s technique was quite different from what I used to. But it was nice and rejuvenating. I’m not sure what technique it was.
After I was done, I was transfer to dining area like and offered a tray of hot tea, cute ice cream and water. How impressive. I signed up for their loyal rewards so I hope to earn some points to get some offers in the future.

I am a massage therapist and know that massage is very important. I get massages at least once a week by LMT coworkers, bodywork professionals, and local massage places, mall the time.
I enjoyed every minute of my experience at this spa. From the time I entered, to the walkout the door, was amazing. From the defused essential oils in the air, to the amazing customer service I received, I really could not have asked for more.
I booked on the day of, and got in 45minutes later. Receptionist was very helpful and polite on the phone. I met her in person when checking in and she guided me through the sign in and changing area. Also, she asked if I would like water or hot tea. I had some delicious hot tea.
I dressed in my rob and locked my belongings in a locker that they provided. I then was introduced to my massage therapist named Yuji. He then guided me in to another room with comfortable lazy boy reclining chairs to sit in and he carefully placed a soft blanked over my legs to keep me warm. He then help me place my feet in warm water with oils & salt.
I had the «Relax & Recharge Package» that includes-​Laka Signature Massage (90 min) and Foot Reflexology (30 min).
Yuji was very attentive and checked on pressure and my comfort. The foot reflexology was much needed and it was done by skilled hands.
After I well enjoyed foot reflexology session, it was time for my 90 minute awesome massage. The therapist focus on my problem areas. Enjoyed every minute!
I then was given time to dress and when I stepped out of the room, I had the receptionist guide me in to another beautiful room to have another cup of hot tea and delicious sorbet.
It was all so wonderful. Happy I treated myself and will be back once a month! Thank you to the manager for making my first visit here memorable.

SIX STARS!
By far the best Reflexology treatment I’ve ever had.
Thx to Jon and Erika for the birthday gift. I knew within minutes that Yuji was an expert.
His attention to detail and med pressure made such a difference…
45 mins later I feel great and my «feet’s» do to…
Definitely going back to try other options.
Friendly Staff and Reasonable Prices.

It’s been a self-​made birthday tradition of mine to have lunch with my family and then take off for a relaxing massage. Not just any massage, but 90 minutes of pure bliss at Laka Skincare and Spa. I’ve been a fan of the spa located on Ward for three years now and it’s in my top 3 spas that I recommend to anyone that asks.
Why celebrate with a massage? Because it’s the only true «me» time and you deserve some. For the duration of your massage, the therapist will focus on just you and your needs. I love spending time with my family on my birthday, but I also think it’s important to treat myself to a little bit of relaxation without them too. I’m pretty sure they agree when they are greeted with the version of me that is recharged and refreshed.
When you enter Laka Skincare and Spa, you will be greeted and taken to a small changing room. You can leave your valuables in a locker and hold the key with you. Then you will be taken to a waiting area with comfy oversized chairs to begin relaxing. My massage therapist, Tiffany, arrived shortly to take me to the treatment room. After we talked specifics about areas that were bothering me or any concerns I had, she left me to get settled on the massage table. During the massage, she made sure to check with me how I liked the pressure. I used to be too intimidated to speak up, but now I know that if I don’t want to be disappointed, I better say something if I’m not happy.
Tiffany was awesome! She delivered just the right pressure and worked her magic over my tired back and body. The peppermint aromatherapy oils were both soothing and rejuvenating. I liked that she used hot towels on my hands and feet so there was no oily residue.
After my amazing massage, I was led to their private dining table where I enjoyed water, peach tea, and their famous black sesame ice cream. You too, will have to restrain yourself from asking for more ice cream.
Laka offers a variety of services and have both male and female massage therapist on staff. Other spa services include facials, scalp care, and spa packages. Guests will be happy to know that Laka offers a loyalty rewards program that give members special pricing. Service here is excellent and on point. Life can get hectic and Laka strives to be the solution by providing their guests a healthy balance of body, mind and spirit.

Hands down, my favorite spa on the island! I almost hate to write this review because it feels almost like I’m telling a deep dark secret… the really juicy kind that you are dying to share with someone yet you don’t want to because it is soooooo good that you want to keep it to yourself!
Take a look at my reviews and you’ll see, I LOVE massages. No joke. I go to different massage establishments for different needs. Laka, is the urban oasis that I come to when I need to relax and be pampered. Customer service is outstanding, location is prime, facility is beautifully tranquil and service providers are incredible.
Sharing is caring. You’re welcome :)

My husband and had a couple’s massage today at Laka (our first time there); it was an early anniversary celebration for us (16 years of marriage), and what a treat it was!
Can we just say… BEST.MASSAGES.EVER!!!
Amy and Hideko are experts of their trade. Both used techniques that my husband and I had never experienced before and intuitively knew exactly what pressure needed to be used where and which areas needed more attention. Each got into every nook and cranny of tension and adeptly released it. From the bottom of our soles to top of our heads, their expertise worked magic and wonders for us! The massages included special touches that we really appreciated throughout… heated and moist towels were used to relieve tension and also to cleanse us of the massage oils used and the use of aromatherapy helped us to feel even more relaxed.
The entire experience at Laka was efficient, soothing, and rejuvenating. From the moment we scheduled our appointments, we were treated with the best customer service. We received a reminder phone call confirming our appointment. The staff at the front desk greeted us and escorted us on our way to and from the waiting, dressing, and massage areas. When the massage was over, we were lead to a room where delicious hot tea, sorbet, and water awaited us. Each person we interfaced with, from the beginning to end of our experience at Laka, was polite, friendly, and extremely helpful… they put their clients at ease immediately. One can tell that they all love doing what they do and connect well with their clients.
We want to thank Amy and Hideko and the entire staff of Laka for treating us to the best massage experience that we’ve ever had. We look forward to many more visits in the future.
Mahalo!!!

I’ve visited Laka Spa a few times now… And, I’m in love!!! They ALWAYS provide excellent service :) The aestheticians and therapists are so attentive and patient that they always know how to make me feel and look great. I don’t know the name of the receptionist who helps me, but she is also always so NICE and helpful. I highly recommend this spa!
P. S. They have a loyalty program, which allows for discounts on services :) I also love how they frequently offer me specials and promotions via email/​text messages.

My boyfriend and I came here for a spontaneous couple’s getaway, and we have decided to become loyalty members and come back every six weeks due to how blown away we were by the experience. We set an appointment for a couple’s 60 minute massage, completed with 30 minutes of foot reflexology afterward. This place, like many others I’m assuming have said, is an oasis in the heart of Kaka’ako. It’s a little tough to find, but if you park in front of the Big and Tall shop and go right toward the back, then you’ll see the sign for the place, and you just go right upstairs for your session of pure bliss.
We were greeted right away when we stepped into the spa, and were asked to take off our slippers, and were given two other clean pair. Then, we were guided to the dressing room where we changed into our fluffy brown robes, and locked up our belongings and clothes in the beautiful lockers. We took the keys with us and walked out to the waiting room, where they had ice cold lemon water already waiting on the table for us! We sipped on the water while we filled out our paperwork, and after taking everything in, two women came and greeted us. The woman who did my massage was named Hope, and the woman who massaged my boyfriend was named June (I think).
Hope is very good at what she does, and toward the end, when we were supposed to be getting foot reflexology after our massages, I couldn’t even remember it, because Hope had done such a marvelous job that I completely fell asleep! I can tell she did a good job with the reflexology though, because after going bsck to work andnstanding around all day again, I notice that my feet and knees are not sore after a long day at work.
What I love about the massages is that not only do they get all your sore spots out, but they also use HOT TOWELS on your body, and it feels soooooo good. According to my boyfriend, June did a great job as well, because he was hesitant to become a loyalty member prior to his massage, but when he woke up from his massage, he was like, «Where do I sign up?» I’m telling you, this place is worth every penny.
After the massage, we were told to exit to the door to our right where we were guided to a private eating area. There were two trays waiting for us, once again with ice cold lemon water, but this time there was hot tea and SESAME SEED GELATO. I mean, I could basically stop here, because I don’t think I need to say anything else.
But I won’t.
I promise you will not be disappointed when you come here. Everything about this place ensures that you get the relaxing getaway that you pay for even if it is just for a couple hours. From the ambiance to the service, to the AROMAS, they have everything covered, and they have YOU covered. I love how much they care about me here. I will definitely be coming back again and again, and I’m already planning a girl’s day with my best friend, and I know she’s just going to LOVE it! You will too!

I just have to rave once again about how amazing this place is. It is a gem of a spa, a sanctuary tucked away in a quiet building on Ward Ave. I went for a facial after I hadn’t been in a while, and I fell back in love with this spa. «Why don’t I go every week?!» ran through my head a few times while I was in there! I won’t go anywhere else for my facials and massages. I booked a 60 minute basic facial and it was wonderful– the aestheticians are all extremely experienced and the spa itself feels very «zen” — with aromatherapy, calming music, and classy décor. The place is dimly lit and perfect for deep relaxation (I fell asleep during my facial because I was so relaxed!)
They also have a loyalty program you can sign up for that gives you discounts– I signed up and immediately got a $ 5 coupon. Score! Additionally, all the staff are lovely and excellent when it comes to customer service. The place is clean, comforting, and professional. After your spa treatment, they take you to a relaxation room where you enjoy complimentary hot tea and ice cream (when I went I got black sesame ice cream, it was SO GOOD!). I also heard that they offer spa lunch packages with healthy food and I think the next time I go to Laka, I will have to try that out!
I always do the hot stone room (ganbanyoku) for 20 minutes after my treatments, just another level of detox and relaxation. I recommend it to everyone as a little added pampering– though I must say that my only advice to Laka would be to make it hotter– the tiles are warm, but I want to really sweat! I am a bit biased, though, as I used to go to traditional ganbanyoku frequently when I lived in Japan (they REALLY make you sweat and it feels awesome!). Ultimately, I absolutely love Laka spa. I will always be a loyal customer!

Besides Korean bath houses and their scary masseuses (that is the plural noun for masseuse, I googled it) who can give you the most painful/​yet satisfying massages of your life, this place can also crank out DEEP tissue massages. When I say DEEP, I don’t mean weak-​ass hand pressures that I’ve gotten in the past and named the massage, «deep tissue». I mean, using elbows and thumbs to get in there and take on those stubborn knots. You seriously walk out a little sore and feeling like a brand new person. TOTALLY WORTH IT.
I decided to treat myself last month for a Birthday massage & facial spa package deal at Laka. Fancy for a day, Whaaaaaaat? I’m 28, I do what I want.
As I signed a form basically stating I won’t die on the table, they brought me this yummy tea (which I inhaled) and then led me the dressing room/​locker room. I stuffed all my crap in one of their huge lockers and got nekkid (naked, teehee) and threw on one of their plush & ginormous robe. I walked into «my» room and the massage therapist discussed with me which areas I would like to focus on: my back, shoulder, neck, with LOTS of pain. I mean pressure. I’m a nurse, and lifting a bunch of big/​sick patients seriously strains my back, leaving me with tense muscles & knots all over the back. The hour just FLEW by but she got every. single. knot. on my back. It was amaaaaaaazing!
Next up was my facial. The facial specialist walked in the room and the masseur left (tag team style). Sooooo, I have horrible skin. I have a combination skin: SUPER oily in certain areas, very dry in other areas, I break out constantly, and I’ve tried every single remedy there is out there. Nothing works. I really appreciate that the specialist squeezed all of the «ready» pimples on my face. I know you’re not supposed to, but the way she did it– the current acne that I had completely vanished and they never returned. The products she used on my skin beforehand & afterwards, erased the redness/​dryness/​oiliness that would’ve been left on my skin after I pop my pimples. I don’t know how she did it, but it was like… magic. Seriously. The facial itself felt awesome & relaxing– and my face GLOWED and it was SO soft after it was over. My face doesn’t look that great anymore because that was over a month ago and my face hates me.
Once my spa session was complete, the staff led me to a small lounge w/​comfy chairs/​couches and gave me delicious sesame ice cream, ice cold water, & jasmine tea. I relaxed for a bit as I went all Asian and took pictures of the damn ice cream. It looked so fancy, I had to!
I am for certain coming back soon for the facial– and the massage for a special time when I have an excuse to treat myself! It’s a little pricey, but I think it’s pretty worth it– especially when you compare to hotel spas: it’s a lot less than those. :)
Parking tip: Free parking spots right in front of the building. But there’s only 2 spots, so either make early appointments or just hope for the best! Don’t park in other business spots– you miiiiiiight get towed. I would tow your ass if you park in my parking spot. Haha, just kidding.
Go to this spa!

Came here for a couple massage for Valentine’s Day special. I came early and showered, and so did my bf. We were asked to fill out forms before we got started. We got slippers, and went to the changing room. There’s only one shower, so you might need to wait if someone is using it.
After awhile, we went to a dimmed room, where we got started. We got the 50 min massage with 10 min foot scrub, couple’s rate was $ 200 w/​o tax.
I notice that my therapist, Hope, was not completely even on her moves, I think she missed some on one side than another.
After the massage, we went to another room, where we had alkaline water, chamomile tea, and gelato with strawberry on top. Gelato was great, but forgot the flavor. I wish there was more!
Overall, everyone was super nice and professional. I suggest being undressed completely, even if you’re a guy or a girl. Shower first so you feel clean!
There’s a parking area for Laka’s customers, and this place is right upstairs.

Like many of the reviews here on Unilocal state, Laka is where I experienced the best massage of my life. #lifechanging
The first time I visited Laka I received a Lomi Lomi massage from one of the male masseuses. It was really relaxing and great. He gave me tips on how to release some of the tension and pressure from various parts of my body. I left very happy, so happy I couldn’t wait to return.
On my second visit, I was fortunate to have Dom give me a Deep Tissue massage. I’m very active in my every day life and tend to suffer from delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) which is why I was in dire need of a deep tissue massage.
Dom made me feel at ease. He was very down to earth and did everything to make me feel comfortable throughout my treatment. The entire time we talked about all sorts of things including areas of my body that were really tight and how to prevent the pressure build up. He also mentioned that he could tell that I was dehydrated because the massage oils were being absorbed pretty quickly by my body. He also suggested Vitamin C on top of ingesting a lot of water daily. Since, then I have been much more attentive to those two tips he gave me.
Service is definitely a priority at Laka. I can’t wait to go back, in fact I cannot wait to go back this weekend to get the best massage of my life part deux.

After returning from my Vegas trip, my skin was horribly dry. I been to Laka once before and was very pleased with the service. So I decided to give them a call to see if they had any available appointments.
Lucky for me they were able to pencil me in the day I called. Thank goodness~! When I arrived to Laka, I was immediately greeted and the girl in the front had me fill out a form. As I was filling this out she brought me some hot tea that tasted delicious
After I turned in my form, I was escorted to the changing room. They had lockers available for me to keep my clothes and personal belongings inside.
Being greeted outside the changing room by another worker, I was then taken to the massage room. I ended up going with the [[ LAKA SIGNATURE PACKAGE $ 175 ]] This package comes with.
++ 60 minute laka signature facial. This facial was great. It was customized to my skin type and even targets new acne that was starting to appear.
++ 60 minute laka signature message. This was just what I needed! I great message with organic oils. This really helped with my dry skin.
After my massage and facial was over I was brought to this other waiting area. Here they gave me some tea, sorbet and water to enjoy.
Overall: I thought this place was great! The staff is super friendly and accommodating to my needs. The massage and facial felt amazing and left me so relaxed. Love Love Love it here!

While having lunch with my friend very pregnant friend Olivia today, she asked if I’d ever had a reflexology massage to which I replied «Nope, but I’ve been wanting to try it.» She has been trying everything to induce labor because she’s 40 weeks and nothing has worked so far. Yesterday she climbed 25 flights of stairs but that baby is staying put. Reflexology was next on the list and she quickly called Laka to try to wrangle two 30-​minute appointments. To my surprise they were able to take us and I figured, why not! My feet have been really sore lately and this was just the break I needed from a long work week.
We pulled up to the building on Ward that houses Laka and I was surprised to find that it’s nestled in a pretty courtyard full of lots of little businesses. I was completely blown away when I walked into the spa itself to find an amazing little piece of Utopia! The minute we walked in the door I knew we had made the right choice. From the rose scented fragrance that streams through the rooms to the ultra friendly staff to the beautiful décor, Laka is every girl’s relaxation dream! All I could think of was all the fantastic reviews I’ve read over the years about this lovely little spa, and I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to finally experience such an amazing local business!
After putting on our slippers we were escorted into a room with two big brown comfortable recliner chairs for each of us. We sat down and they soaked our feet in tubs filled with eucalyptus and sea salt water. As we relaxed they covered our legs with warm blankets and served us water and hot red velvet tea. We could have stopped there and I would have been completely satisfied! My masseuse Yugi wrapped one of my feet in a hot towel as he slowly worked on the other foot. I was initially worried because I’ve heard that reflexology can be really sore, but it wasn’t too bad and I found my big toe is where I experienced the most pain. Yugi told me that the big toe represents your brain, and that made sense considering I’ve had so much on my mind lately. I found out there are actually 64 meridian points in your feet and they’re connected to every single part of your body. Mind blown!
My friend Olivia had a really nice masseuse who hopefully helped to induce her body into labor by massaging the pressure points that are usually avoided when treating pregnant women. At the end of our 30-​minute massage we were treated to more water, hot red velvet tea and a scoop of azuki ice cream. Best way to spend 30-​minutes EVER! This is my new favorite spa and I can’t wait to return for more treatments. Next time I’m going to do a 90-​minute full body and the legendary scalp massage that is suppose to be fantastic! Next time you think you don’t have time to relax, take out 30-​minutes from our hectic day and treat yourself to a phenomenal time at Laka Spa!